• Take notes while listening, but also make your own notes on readings that are prescribed or supplemental material described in the lecture
• Have pen and paper to jot down the most important things described or items to be researched at a later time

•  The Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said, “The cure for confusion is but to ask”.
• We shouldn’t be scared to ask questions from our teachers because if we don’t ask, it may lead to confusion and misunderstanding. Questions should, however, be asked with the proper etiquette and manners.

• The best way to prepare for a class is to prepare so much that you know the subject better than the teacher
• It is important to prepare for class, just as you prepare to go to school or work.
• It is best to read and understand the text of the section being discussed, however, if nothing else, read over the text of the section.

• Students owe a debt of gratitude to ALL teachers (Islamic or secular education) so never be rude or think we’re ‘paying’ them because at the end of the day, the teachers are still the ones with knowledge; knowledge is power and more valuable than wealth.

And [We sent] messengers about whom We have related [their stories] to you before and messengers about whom We have not mentioned to you. And to Musa (Moses) Allah spoke directly.
Qur'an - Chapter 4, Verse 164

(Then) a person will know what he has sent forward and (what he has) left behind (of good or bad deeds).
Qur'an - Chapter 82, Verse 5

Whatever of good reaches you, is from Allah, but whatever of evil befalls you, is from yourself. And We have sent you [O Muhammad], to the people as a messenger, and sufficient is Allah as Witness.
Qur'an - Chapter 4, Verse 79

1. Day of Judgment (Yawm al-Qiyamah): Central to Islamic eschatology is the belief in the Day of Judgment, also known as the Day of Resurrection or Yawm al-Qiyamah. It is a day when all human beings will be resurrected from the dead, and their deeds will be evaluated by Allah. Each individual will be held accountable for their actions, and their eternal fate will be determined.

2. Resurrection (Al-Baath): Muslims believe in the resurrection of the dead, where every human being, from the time of Adam to the last person born on Earth, will be raised from the dead. They will stand before Allah to be judged.

3. Heaven (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam): Islamic eschatology includes the concepts of Jannah (Paradise) and Jahannam (Hell). Based on their deeds and Allah's mercy, individuals will either enter Paradise for eternal bliss or be consigned to Hell for punishment.

4. Intercession (Shafa'ah): Muslims believe that intercession on the Day of Judgment may occur, and certain individuals, including the prophets and righteous people, may be allowed to intercede on behalf of others to seek forgiveness from Allah.

5. Signs of the Hour (Al-Ayaam al-Su'ah): Islamic eschatology includes various signs and events that are believed to precede the Day of Judgment. These signs include moral decay, the advent of false prophets, natural disasters, and other significant phenomena, as mentioned in the Hadith.

6. The Mahdi and the Return of Jesus (Isa, peace be upon him): Islamic eschatology includes the belief in the coming of the Mahdi, a guided leader, who will lead the Muslim community to justice and righteousness. It also includes the return of Jesus (Isa), who will play a significant role in the events of the end times, including the defeat of the false Messiah (Dajjal).

7. The Blowing of the Trumpet (Soor): In Islamic tradition, it is believed that there will be two trumpet blasts on the Day of Judgment. The first will signal the end of the world, and the second will signal the resurrection of the dead.

8. Accountability and Divine Justice: Islamic eschatology emphasizes the principle of divine justice, where every individual will be justly rewarded or punished based on their intentions and actions during their earthly life.

9. Tribulations and Testing: Muslims are taught to prepare for the trials and tribulations that will occur before the Day of Judgment. They are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith, perform good deeds, and seek Allah's forgiveness.

1. Compassion for Animals: Islam promotes compassion and care for animals. The Prophet Muhammad emphasized kindness to animals, and there are many Hadith that highlight the importance of providing for their needs and treating them with respect and mercy.

2. Protection of Water: Water is a precious resource in arid regions where Islam originated, and the faith encourages the preservation and responsible use of water. Wasting water is discouraged, and Muslims are encouraged to share water with others, including animals.

3. Prohibition of Pollution: Pollution is considered harmful to the environment and human health. Islam prohibits actions that harm the environment, and Islamic principles can be applied to address issues like air and water pollution.

4. Planting Trees: The Prophet Muhammad emphasized the planting of trees and considered it a virtuous act. He is reported to have said, "If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (Sadaqah) for him."

5. Biodiversity: Islam acknowledges the diversity of life on Earth as a sign of God's wisdom. The Quran mentions various creatures and the lessons that can be learned from them.

1. by means of worship

2. discern (can weigh which is right and which is wrong) find the problem and try to solve the problem

3. definition of hikmah: wisdom/ intellect/ knowledge /// the concept of comprehending the commands of allah

4. What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge?

5. The scope of this knowledge is smaller compared to wisdom, this knowledge is general because this knowledge has good knowledge and bad knowledge, but when it comes to wisdom, it is more precise and detailed because it only deals with good things.

6. wisdom in Islam: one thing belongs to the believer (one objective for the believer to find) and if the believer gets that thing, he has the right to that thing

7. the objective of wisdom in Islam: wisdom makes people understand more about religion

8. we can feel the relationship with our innerself

9. My mother's example is fierce because she wants to tell me to be good

10. when we understand the wisdom behind that, we will see the bigger picture

Intention

1. every act is accompanied by an intention

2. This intention has to do with the brain, niyyah: intention or motive behind an act which to draw oneself closer to Allah (the path will be easy but on the condition that Allah will test)

3. any deeds that performed without intention, might not be accepted

4. if we have good intentions, but do not do the practice, we will get a reward

5. if we have good intentions, do good deeds, double reward

6. if the intention is bad, don't do blah blah

How do you know that the intention is correct?

1. sincerity: intention for God's sake, always correct the intention, other things will come easily

2. purity of intention: pure and clean

3. clarity: the intention here is clear and why do we want to do it? Why do we go to the mosque? why are we in class? intention with focus

4. focus

5. consistency: intention, let's do it consistently, God will give us the way (made easy)

act

practice of performing good deeds and acts of worship

- it is a fundamental aspect of the Islamic faith

- devoted

- not sporadically

- example of charity = zakat prayer, fasting, hajj, learning kindness

- what is this courtesy?? you worship God as you see him, even if you cannot see him, as surely as he sees you

- ihsan in Islam refers to positive virtues that are considered to be essential for leading a good life

- ihsan is highly regarded in Islam

- the definition of courtesy is very broad

- from hasana : good

- ahsanallahu ilaik = jazakallahuulkhair

greater scope knowledge

general

knowledge can be good or bad

more detailed wisdom

precisely

Just like how driving is dangerous when under the influence or fatigue , feeling sleepy while praying is a huge distraction . The focus needed is hampered by the constant thought of a nice bed to sleep on , energy levels are not optimum for this task .

Anas ibn Maalik said, “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “If any one of you feels sleepy when he is praying, he should sleep until he [is rested enough to] know what he is saying,” i.e., he should take a nap until he no longer feels drowsy. (Reported by al-Bukhari, no. 210) .

This hadith also includes fard prayers, when a person is confident that he will still have enough time to pray after taking a nap .

2. Centre of focus

Just like the first point on driving a car , there must be a centre of focus when performing a solat . All focus must stay away from outside distractions of daily living and focus solely on the actions during solat and appreciate meanings of the surahs recited .

Using the analogy of driving a car , when the centre of focus is taken off the driving aspect and losing it completely , an accident most definitely can occur with deadly consequences . Well , not having khusyuk in solat is definitely not deadly (that's just overstating) , but remaining focused on the solat won't hurt anything in real life . Allah  is the Most Gracious in still giving health, money and time to His worshippers everyday .

On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:

"Part of the perfection of one's Islam is his leaving that which does not concern him."

(Reported by al-Tarmizi)

3. Not praying when one needs to answer the call of nature 

No doubt one of the things that can prevent proper khusyuk is praying when one needs to go to the washroom . Specifically those who have very sensitive bowels and bladders . This can be dodgy at best .

If anyone is in this position, they should leave prayer , even if it's congregational prayer, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “If any one of you needs to go to the toilet, and the prayer has begun, he should go to the toilet first.” (Reported by Abu Dawood, no. 88; Saheeh al-Jaami’, no. 299)

This also is applied to the urge to pass wind .

4. Visualize 

Always try to remind oneself that you are standing in front of Allah , pray as though you see Him; and if you cannot do that, then be aware that He is definitely seeing you. As you recite, visualize the Arabic words of each surah. Do not close your eyes, but focus on the place of sujood.

Maintaining that focus can detract any distraction outside .

5. Not praying when there is food prepared that one wants to eat 

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Do not pray when there is food prepared.” (Reported by Muslim, no. 560).

Prophet Muhammad  (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “If the dinner is served and the time for prayer comes, eat dinner before praying Salaat al-Maghrib, and do not rush to finish your meal.” According to another report: “If dinner has been put out and the iqaamah has been given for prayer, eat dinner first and do not rush to finish it.” (Agreed upon. Al-Bukhari, Kitaab al-Aadhan, Baab idhaa hadara al-ta’aamu wa uqeemat al-salaah; Muslim, no. 557-559).

These hadiths have a common theme . Food that has been prepared must take precedence over performing the solat , this is an exception to the rule of must adhering to solat . If someone were to perform the solat while having thoughts of a meal in mind can serve as a huge distraction to khusyuk in solat

A prayer is the key to our success here in this world and the hereafter. Therefore, it is very crucial to perform our prayers as perfect as possible in order for it to be accepted by the Almighty. Unfortunately, many of us do not understand the significance of khusyu’  during prayer. Due to laziness, hectic schedules and many other factors, we tend to rush our prayers just to get it over with, not realising the fact that the Creator may simply reject our insincere act of worship.

Many of us take our prayers for granted as we are blinded by worldly pursuits and success not knowing that it has long been stated in the Holy Qur’an that prayer and success are interrelated.

It is mentioned in the Qur’an “Triumphant indeed are the believers, who are submissive to God in their prayers” (Surah 23, verses 1-2). It is evident that prayers are important to every Muslim; hence we have to work on making the best out of each one.

Undoubtedly, shaytaan’s attempt at disturbing those who are praying is never-ending. His whispers will emerge as soon as we start to pray and he will stick around throughout the entire prayer, doing whatever he can to divert our concentration. Therefore, we must never let him win and we must ignore his whispers from within.

It is important to keep shaytaan far away from ourselves when we are not praying in order to easily push him away while we pray. This includes staying away from anything that is Haram, keeping ourselves busy with beneficial acts and strengthening our faith by doing things that keep Allah and the angels close.

We may also obtain khusyu’  by perfecting our relationship with the One we speak to during our prayers. Allah says in surah Taha verse 14 “…and establish prayer for My remembrance”. We may understand from this verse that Allah the Almighty is asking us to pray in order to remember Him.

Maintaining a good relationship with Allah is crucial and once His mercy and love fill our hearts, we will yearn for the moment we speak to Him during prayers, hence making it easier for us to concentrate. It is therefore important for us to keep Allah in our heart and mind at all times in order to maintain a good relationship with Him.

Finally, remembering death while praying will help obtain khusyu’  as mentioned by the Prophet (s.a.w): “Remember death in your prayer, for the man who remembers death during his prayer is bound to pray properly, and pray the prayer of a man who does not think that he will pray any other prayer.” (Reported by al-Suyooti). When a man has a mind-set that any prayer could be his final act of worship before departing from the earth, he will definitely perform it the best he could.

Khusyu’ ,  just like imaan (faith), undoubtedly fluctuates. One day we are successful, one day we are not. Therefore, we should be vigilant in ensuring that we are able to grasp full concentration as we perform each prayer.

1- Fasting is a shield or a screen from the Hell-Fire.

Abu Sa’id al-Khudri (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

He who observes fast for a day in the way of Allah He would remove his face from the Hell to the extent of seventy years’ distance. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

2- Fasting is a shield that protects or helps the worshipper to withstand temptations

Abdullah (b. Mas’ud) (Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said to us:

O young men, those among you who can support a wife should marry, for it restrains eyes (from casting evil glances) and preserves one from immorality; but he who cannot afford it should observe fast for it is a means of controlling the sexual desire. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

3- Those who perform fasting are the al-sāiḥūna

Allah says:

” Such are the repentant, the worshipful, the praise-giving; al-sāiḥūna, who bow to Him alone and who bow their faces down to the ground in Prayer to Him; those who enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong, and who diligently observe the ordained limits of God. So give glad tidings to the believers of everlasting delight in Paradise”. (Quran 09:112)

The great commentator, Al-Tabari, explains the meaning of al-sāiḥūna as those who fast.

4- There is nothing equal to fasting as it is a means to be admitted into the Paradise.

It was narrated that Abu Umamah said:

“I said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, tell me of an action (I should do).’ He said: ‘Take to fasting, for there is nothing equal to it.”‘ (Sunan an-Nasa’i)

5- Fasting intercede on behalf of its observers on the Day of Judgment. This is mentioned in Hadith collected by Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal in his Musnad.

6- Fasting is means to expiate sins and to have all one’s past sins forgiven.

Narrated Abu Huraira:

Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

7- Fasting is a reason for happiness in this life and Afterlife.

Abu Hurairah narrated that:

The Messenger of Allah said: “There are two joys for the fasting person: the joy when he breaks his fast, and the joy of when he meets his Lord.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

8- Allah’s reward for fasting is high and it highlights how great fasting is!

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “(Allah said), ‘Every good deed of Adam’s son is for him except fasting; it is for Me. and I shall reward (the fasting person) for it. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

9- The virtue of the smell of the mouth of the person observing fasting

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said “Verily, the smell of the mouth of a fasting person is better to Allah than the smell of musk.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

10- The supplication of a fasting person when he breaks his or her fast at sunset is not rejected.

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:

There are three whose supplications are not turned back: A just ruler, and a fasting person until he breaks his fast. And, the supplication of one who has been wronged is raised by Allah up to the clouds on the Day of Resurrection, and the gates of heaven are opened for it, and Allah says, ‘By My Might I will help you (against the wrongdoer) even if it is after a while.’” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

1. Sadaqah Helps Cure Illness and Averts Death.

The Prophet (saw) said “Treat your sick ones with charity.” (Saheeh al-Jaami) When your loved ones fall ill it is recommended to give a lot of sadaqah to help cure disease and avert ill-fate, The Prophet (saw) also said: "Sadaqah appeases the Lord’s anger and averts an evil death.” (Tirmidhi)

2. Sadaqah Eases Hardships and Removes Calamities

The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said “Give the Sadaqah without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Tirmidhi)

As Muslims we believe that this life is a test and one way of being tested is with hardships. Allah (swt) gives is trials to test our faith in him. Giving Sadaqah during a time of hardship shows strong Iman and gratitude to Allah (swt) and It is only Allah (swt) with his infinite mercy that can change a person’s situations. Allah (swt) says in the Holy Quran: “Allah removes what He wishes and establishes what He wishes, for He has the Mother of Books”. (Sura ar-Ra‘ad, 13: 39)

3. Sadaqa is an Investment in This Life and Hereafter.

A return on investment isn’t something you would normally associate with spending money on charitable causes however Allah (swt) promises us that he will increase our wealth, sustenance and bring us success in this life and in the hereafter when we give Sadaqah.

“Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan - it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.” (Al Hadeed 57:18)

4. Sadaqa Expiates Sins.

On the Day of Judgement, we will all be held to account for every sin we have committed major and minor. No matter how hard we try, we are only human, and sinning is inevitable. That is why it is important for us to give Sadaqah regularly to expiate our sins.

The Prophet (SAWS) said: “Charity extinguishes the sins like water extinguishes a fire.” (Ibn Majah)

5. Sadaqah is One of the Gates of Jannah

Baab As-Sadaqah is one of the 8 gates of Jannah. This door only allows those believers to enter who were charitable and gave Sadaqah in the way of Allah, whether to their parents, orphans, widows, the sick and the needy. Giving Sadaqah gives you the virtue of entering paradise through this gate.

“But those who feared their Lord will be driven to Paradise in groups until, when they reach it while its gates have been opened and its keepers say, “Peace be upon you; you have become pure; so enter it to abide eternally therein,” (Quran 39:73)

6. Sadaqa Will be your Shade on the Day of Judgement

On a day which will last 50,000 years, where the sun will be right above the heads, we will all be hoping to be one of the seven to be under Allah (SWT) shade on Judgment Day. The person who gives hidden charity is one of the seven.

The Prophet (SAWS) said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Tirmidhi)

7. Sadaqah Purifies the Nafs

Our purpose in life is to strive in the way of Allah through worship and good deeds to attain righteousness, and one cannot attain righteousness without spending for the sake of Allah. Our wealth is a test from Allah and can even be a burden, we are accountable for how we spend it. We must spend on charity to extinguish worldly desires and attain the reward of the Hereafter 

“By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you give (freely) of that which you love. And whatever you spend; indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.” (Al Imraan 3:92)

8. Sadaqah is a Means of Acceptance of Dua

A Muslim can ask Allah to accept their dua by virtue of their good deeds including the Sadaqah they give. An example of this is the sahih hadeeth narrated in Muslim and Bukhari, about the three people who entered a cave, and a rock fell and blocked their way out. They asked Allah by the virtue of their best deeds to save them.

9. Sadaqa Brings Balance to the Society and Benefits the Community.

Giving Sadaqah to the orphans, widows, sick and needy ensures we live in a much fairer society by sharing the wealth. Sadaqah does not only mean giving money but it can be any act of kindness. The Prophet said: “Your smile for your brother is a charity. Your removal of stones, thorns or bones from the paths of people is a charity. Your guidance of a person who is lost is a charity” (Bukhari). Sadaqah is about benefiting the whole community and looking after the vulnerable to better society.

10. Sadaqah is a Way to Earn Rewards after Death.

By giving Sadaqah Jariyah you can invest in the hereafter for yourself or for your loved ones by earning continuous rewards. The Prophet (saw) said: “When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased).”